Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has made it clear that he will celebrate if his team finds the back of the net against Liverpool in their Carabao Cup fourth-round clash at Anfield.
The Spaniard is preparing to face his former club on Wednesday, October 28, in a fixture that carries extra significance given his successful playing career with the Reds.
Alonso, who helped Liverpool win the Champions League in 2005, acknowledged his strong connection with the Merseyside club but stressed that his responsibilities now lie with Chelsea.
Speaking ahead of the encounter, the Blues boss explained that he intends to show respect to Liverpool while fully supporting his current team.
“I need to support my team. I need to support my club. I fight for my club and if we score, I will celebrate with whole respect,” Alonso said.
His comments underline his commitment to Chelsea as he prepares for another return to Anfield, this time as the manager of the opposition.
Chelsea will be hoping to respond positively after their disappointing 2-0 Premier League defeat to Tottenham Hotspur. The Carabao Cup tie offers Alonso's side an opportunity to bounce back and secure a place in the quarter-finals.
With emotions likely to run high on his return to a stadium where he enjoyed some of the biggest moments of his playing career, Alonso has made his position clear: his respect for Liverpool remains, but his priority is now Chelsea.
Can Alonso lead Chelsea to victory at Anfield?